The initiative, whose goal is to make known the work developed by Brazilian companies on sustainability while appealing to the consumer’s imagination, was carried out by the Brazilian Association of Footwear Industries (Abicalçados), in partnership with the Brazilian Agency for the Promotion of Exports and Investments (ApexBrazil). In detail, it counted with the participation of the following companies: Beira Rio, Bibi, Grendene, Kidy, Klin, Pegada, Piccadilly, Ramarim, Urban Flowers and Usaflex. The official launch took place during the Brazilian participation in Expo Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.

“Sustainability is a valueble attribute in Brazil, but mainly a requirement for attracting more businesses. The positioning of the Brazilian footwear industry portraying the practical reality of sustainability will further strengthen business opportunities and the promotion of our image abroad”, commented Alice Rodrigues, Abicalçados’ image promotion coordinator. She pointed out that the participating companies have not only sustainable products but also a production process aligned with the concept.

The Brazilian Footwear manager at ApexBrazil, Mariele Christ, added that sustainability, especially for companies that intend to export their products to more developed markets (like Europe and North America) is no longer a differential element, but a necessity, as it has become a worldwide movement. Therefore, "the national footwear industry, increasingly, has been working on sustainability. The fact is translated into Sustainable Origin, the only global certification of the chain in the area of sustainability” she concludes.